The Florida Panthers wrapped up their season on Wednesday. Speaking to reporters on Thursday about the campaign, head coach Paul Maurice had a blunt but hilarious response when asked about Aleksander Barkov’s season: “Terrible,” Maurice said.
After three straight Stanley Cup Final appearances and two consecutive championships, the Florida Panthers missed the 2025–2026 playoffs. They finished 14th in the Eastern Conference, marking the first time they have missed the postseason since the 2018–2019 season.
READ MORE: Paul Maurice hilariously calls out his entire team
Florida Panthers injuries
The Panthers were hit hard by injuries to key players throughout the year. Brad Marchand, Sam Reinhart, Anton Lundell, and Matthew Tkachuk all missed significant time. Most notably, team captain Aleksander Barkov missed the entire season after suffering a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee. Barkov underwent surgery and would have been available for the playoffs had Florida qualified.
Instead, Barkov has committed to playing for Team Finland at the upcoming World Championship, which begins on May 15.
Paul Maurice hilarious response
Wrapping up the 2025–2026 campaign in his end-of-season press conference, head coach Paul Maurice spoke to reporters about the year and preparations for next season. Known for his dry humor, Maurice did not disappoint when asked about Barkov’s season.
“Terrible year. Completely ineffective,” Paul Maurice told reporters.
Fans online loved the short but hilarious answer.
“Paul Maurice is a funny guy,” one fan wrote on X.^
“But he didn’t make a single mistake, so there are always silver linings,” another joked.
“Maurice never fails with the sarcasm,” a third chimed in.
READ MORE: Matthew Tkachuk shares his most evil prank on teammates
